Election Day is finally here. Today, we’ll get updates on how Election Day is unfolding in our state and across the nation.

Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas will join us, and we hear from one Connecticut Public reporter in the field. Later, we take a look at one of the oldest political campaign tools: lawn signs.

Are you voting today? What are polling stations looking like where you live?

GUESTS:

• Stephanie Thomas: Connecticut Secretary of the State
• Sujata Srinivasan: Senior Health Reporter for Connecticut Public
• Jennifer Hopper: Associate Professor of Political Science at Southern Connecticut State University
• Alex Coppock: Assistant Professor of Political Science at Yale University and a resident fellow of the Institution for Social Policy Studies and Center for the Study of American Politics

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This hour, we hear a panel discussion called “Artistic Congress,” held at the Long Wharf Theatre in New Haven, Connecticut on October 26. Panelists, including educators, journalists, and artists, gathered to discuss the connection between creativity and civic engagement.

They asked: Is it political discourse that impacts art? Or is it art that fuels political discourse?

GUESTS:

• Lucy Gellman: Editor of the arts paper and cofounder of the Youth Journalism Arts Initiative at the Arts Council of Greater New Haven
• Leslie Blatteau: President of the New Haven Federation of Teachers
• Lady Dane Figueroa Edidi: Performance artist, playwright and curator of the Black Trans Women at the Center New Play Festival at the Long Wharf Theatre

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Happy Halloween!

Is Connecticut the spookiest place in the country? We’re not sure, but our guests today are pretty haunted!

All this hour, we’ll be talking about all things Spooky Connecticut, and not just our favorite haunted spots.

There will be candy debates, b-low-budget-horror-movies-17880235.php">talks of our favorite horror flicks filmed right here in Connecticut, and more.

Watch the Connecticut Public documentary "Trail of Terror" here.

GUESTS:

• Colin McEnroe: Host of the Colin McEnroe Show
• Chion Wolf: Host of Audacious with Chion Wolf
• Francesca Fontanez: host of Spooky CT and Social Media Editor at Connecticut Public

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How do you spend your time online? Many of our online platforms are designed to encourage scrolling, and to benefit advertisers and algorithms. assn.org/article/internet-and-loneliness/2023-11#:~:text=An%20early%20study%20of%20the,increase%20in%20depression%20and%20loneliness.&text=Subsequent%20studies%20have%20reported%20similar%20results.">Platforms built to connect us have left us more disconnected than ever.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Technologists say that a better internet is possible. Today, we talk about the changing architecture of the internet to serve the public interest.

Later, we take a look at one of the largest libraries of online culture: The Internet Archive. It came under attack this month. We learn how this resource is being preserved for future generations.

GUESTS:

• Dan York: Senior Advisor at the Internet Society
• Andrew White: Caleb T. Winchester University Librarian at Wesleyan University

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It’s the season of the witch! While we prepare to wear our pointed hats this Halloween, we can’t forget the gruesome history of witch hunts in New England – including Connecticut.

While many movies today celebrate witches as quirky, empowered, and misunderstood, the history behind being called a “witch” is rooted in prejudice and fear.

In today’s political landscape, the word “witch” continues to be weaponized against female politicians. So how far have we really come from the days of witch hunts?

For more Where We Live conversations around Connecticut's history of witches:

• 'Before there was Salem, there was Connecticut': State formally pardons accused witches
• A push to exonerate victims of Connecticut's early witch trials
• Connecticut witches of the past, present and future
• Author Spotlights Connecticut's History Of Witch Hangings

GUESTS:

• Natalie Bellager, Public Programs Manager, Connecticut Museum of Culture and History
• Julie Walsh, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Wellesley College 

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When the Afghanistan fell under Taliban rule in 2021, instruments were destroyed and musicians were silenced.

Today, we hear from Afghan musicians taking part in a performance at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford entitled “Symphony of Resilience: The Afghan Orchestra Unsilenced.”

We’ll listen to some of their original music and learn how some artists in Afghanistan are finding ways to pursue and even record music abroad.

Plus, Kevin Bishop, the founder of Cuatro Puntos, a Connecticut non-profit that works to amplify persecuted and underrepresented music and musicians, joins us.

GUESTS:

• Nazira Wali: musician and composer
• Arson Fahim: musician, pianist, composer and conductor
• Kevin Bishop: Founder and Executive Director of Cuatro Puntos

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James White entered the Connecticut school system at age 7. Although he would go on to graduate high school and run a small business, he found himself struggling. He had to ask friends and family members for help with paperwork. Writing and reading was a challenge. But then he found the Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford and started taking classes.

Many adults struggle with reading comprehension, and writing. PL-AdultBasicEducation-FactSheet-2467.pdf">There are approximately 48 million adults in the United States that cannot read above a third grade level. Today, we take a look at literacy education in Connecticut and beyond.

There are many areas of literacy, including media literacy. If you hear the term media literacy, you might think of news, social media, or even yes, election ads and political messaging. But media literacy is starting to encompass a lot of other mediums including artificial intelligence. We learn about expanding media literacy education.

GUESTS:

• James White: Student taking courses at the Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford
• Steve Morris: Executive Director for the Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford
• Michelle Ciulla Lipkin: Executive Director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education

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Every presidential election, campaigns flood our TVs with political ads. Back in 1952, “Ike for President” became the very first political advertisement on TV. Dwight Eisenhower's campaign may have been the first to use television like this. But it’s certainly not the last.

Today, more than 70 years later, political ads are everywhere. In recent weeks, both the Kamala Harris and Donald Trump campaigns have ramped up their advertising. And it’s no longer just on our TV screens; it’s on social media platforms, too.

This hour, we’re looking at political advertising during the 2024 election cycle from the messages we’re seeing to how that impacts what we do at the ballot box.

What kinds of messages are you seeing?

GUEST:

• Erika Franklin Fowler: Professor of Government at Wesleyan University and co-director of the Wesleyan Media Project

Note: The ad from Rep. Jahana Hayes's campaign played in this episode originally aired in 2022 and was featured on the campaign's website homepage at the time of this broadcast. This episode originally aired on August 24, 2024.

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Early voting starts next week across Connecticut. This means voters can cast their ballots ahead of Election Day in November. Each town and city will have at least one early voting location, and voters can even cast their ballots over the weekend.

Today, we hear from poll workers getting ready for early voting in Connecticut. Plus, we'll hear about what early voting looks like across the country.

Connecticut Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas joins us. She explains what you need to know about casting your ballot ahead of Election Day.

Find information on registering to vote, finding your polling location and more by visiting myvote.ct.gov.

GUESTS:

• Stephanie Thomas: Connecticut Secretary of the State
• David Becker: Executive Director of the Center for Election Innovation & Research
• Ginny Kim: Volunteer with Asian Pacific American Coalition of Connecticut and Co-lead of the Let’s Vote Initiative
• David Fenn: Poll worker in Windham
• Stacey Chowanec: Poll worker in Willimantic

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The humanitarian crisis in Lebanon has become dire.

The country faces economic and financial uncertainty, and nearly 2000 deaths since the start of the conflict.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that of the 5.5 million people living in Lebanon, 1 million people are in dire need.

Today, humanitarian aid organizations International Rescue Committee and Anera joins us to describe what is happening on the ground in Lebanon.

Plus two Lebanese Americans living and working as chef-owners in Connecticut join us to respond to the situation and speak on Lebanese cuisine, culture and hospitality.

GUESTS:

• Samar El-Yassir: Lebanon and Jordan Country Director for Anera
• Ciaran Donnelly: Senior Vice President, Crisis Response, Recovery & Development at International Rescue Committee
• Reem Hadir: chef and founder of Lebnani Mediterranean Kitchen and Bar in Watertown
• George Noujaim: chef owner of Noujaim’s Mediterranean Cuisine in Winsted

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The Mohegan Tribe – a sovereign and federally-recognized Indian tribe in Southeastern Connecticut – has a longstanding belief in the power of storytelling.

This oral tradition is a form of spoken record-keeping. Stories can often capture a deeper and fuller understanding of culture and beliefs than historical texts.

This hour, we talk to Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian. Melissa is part of a long line of “culture bearers,” tasked with keeping the traditions of the Mohegan Tribe alive through stories.

GUESTS:

• Melissa Tantaquidgeon Zobel, the Mohegan Tribe’s vice chair of the council of elders and tribal historian

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In Connecticut, the bear population has boomed. And so have human-bear conflicts. the-state-of-the-bears.pdf">There are somewhere between 1000-1200 black bears in our state alone.

You might know what to do if you encounter a black bear in the wild, but bears are not just on trails anymore. In the past year, there were 35 incidents of bears entering homes right here in our state.

Although they might look friend-shaped, we wouldn’t recommend getting friendly. In fact, intentionally feeding the bears is now against the law.

Maybe you’ve seen a bear where you live. Today, we’ll hear from bear experts across the state and learn what to do if you come across one.

Did you follow this year’s Fat Bear Week? This week-long national tournament by the National Parks Service celebrates bear hibernation and conservation, while also serving as a campaign to make the public bear aware. We learn about it.

GUESTS:

• Jason Hawley: Wildlife Biologist for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
• Felicia Ortner: Volunteer Docent at the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo
• Rachel Maiser: Natural Resource Lead for the Northeast Regional Office of the National Park Service

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October is Menopause Awareness Month.

There is not one universal menopause experience. But almost everyone with a uterus will go through it. So why is it still taboo to talk about “the change?" Well, that’s something our guest today wants to change.

Today, we’ll hear from journalist and menopause advocate Tamsen Fadal on changing how we talk about the change. She is the author of the upcoming book How To Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better than Before. She is also a producer and executive producer of the new documentary The [M] Factor: Shredding The Silence On Menopause.

Today, she joins us for the hour. Plus, a local OB GYN joins us. What's your menopause story?

GUESTS:

• Tamsen Fadal: author, journalist and menopause advocate
• Dr. Karianne Silverman: OBGYN at St Francis Hospital/Trinity Health Of New England in Hartford

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Today marks one year since the Hamas attacks on Israel that killed 1,200 people. In the ensuing war, more than 40,000 Palestinians have been killed — and there are mounting concerns about a wider conflict in the region.

The United Nations reports that the humanitarian support system in Gaza is close to total collapse. Civilians in the region have severely reduced access to food, water, sanitation, hygiene and health services.

This hour, we get an update on humanitarian aid in Gaza.

Plus, we explore the principles of international humanitarian law, also known as the laws of war, and what they aim to do during times of conflict.

GUESTS:

• Nathaniel Raymond, Executive Director of the Humanitarian Research Lab at the Yale School of Public Health
• Janti Soeripto, President & CEO of Save the Children, an international NGO and humanitarian aid organization based in Connecticut
• hassan.com/">Lila Hassan, Independent investigative journalist 

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It’s apple season here in Connecticut. And the history of the apple in New England dates back to 1623, three years after the landing of the Mayflower.

Back in 2023, a late season frost devastated crops at several farms across our state. Farmers reported damage to a number of fruit crops including pears, peaches, berries and yes, even apples.

There are thousands of apple varieties world wide, with only a fraction of which are grown in our state. But apple lovers and enthusiasts are working to bring new varieties to local orchards near you.

Today is all about apples. Later, we hear about the origins of apple cider.

GUESTS:

• Evan Lentz: Assistant Extension Educator in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at UConn
• Jim Wargo: Grower and Owner of Hidden Gem Orchard
• Craig Cavallo: co-author of American Cider and co-owner of Golden Russet Cafe and Grocery in Rhinebeck, New York

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It’s hard getting your book published. It’s even harder when you’re an author of color. Between 1950 and 2018, publishing-industry.html">96% of American fiction books published were written by white authors.

Today, hear from two Latina authors in Connecticut about their debut books. They’ll talk about navigating the publishing industry and the importance of centering marginalized voices.

In her novel, The Girls in Queens, Christine Kandic Torres tells the story of two Latinx women coming of age in Queens, New York. In her memoir, A Body Across Two Hemispheres, Victoria Buitron shares how she came of age between Ecuador and the United States.

We'll also hear about their work as editors of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology.

GUESTS:

• Christine Kandic Torres: author of The Girls in Queens and fiction editor of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology

• Victoria Buitron: author of A Body Across Two Hemispheres and nonfiction editor of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

This episode originally aired July 11, 2024.

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Breaking, also known as breakdancing, was one of several new sports at the Olympics this summer. But there’s nothing new about the presence of b-boys and b-girls.

Breaking began as a way to escape the daily socio-economic struggles of Black and Brown youth in the Bronx during the 1970s and ‘80s.

This hour, we hear how breaking expanded into the mainstream. We’ll explore how, at its core, breaking is a form of storytelling and resistance.

GUESTS:

• Rosemarie Roberts, Dayton Professor of Dance, Connecticut College
• Brandon Couloute, aka “B-Boy Lectronic,” dancer, choreographer and educator

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Election Day is less than six weeks away. Are you planning to vote in person this year? For those with disabilities, going to polling stations can be a real challenge.

People with disabilities are less likely to vote than people without disabilities. Disabled voters can face many barriers to voting, from inaccessible polling places to restrictions on absentee ballots.

This November, Connecticut voters could approve a ballot initiative that could create a pathway to give everyone access to absentee ballots, without needing an excuse making voting easier for voters with disabilities.

Today, we hear about what access this looks like in our state and what can be done to improve it. If you are a voter with a disability, we want to hear from you. What have your experiences been like at the polls?

GUESTS:

• Sara Kempner: Director of Creative Campaigns & Collaborations at the U.S. Vote Foundation
• Ellen Telker: Retired attorney and President of Connecticut Council of the Blind, an affiliate of American Council of the Blind
• Ben Hovland: Chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission

To report problems at the polls, you can call the Election Day Hotline 1-866-SEEC-INFO (1-866-733-2463).

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Architect and attorney Sara Bronin spent seven years as the chair of the Hartford Planning and Zoning Commission. Connecticut listeners might know her from her work with the organization DesegregateCT, a statewide coalition pushing for zoning reform across in our state.

Her new book Key to the City: How Zoning Shapes Our World goes beyond Hartford, and looks at how zoning molds cities and communities across the nation.

And zoning isn’t just about housing, it touches every aspect of our lives including our physical and emotional health. Better zoning starts with getting better data about zoning. There are thousands of different zoning codes, and Sara is working to log them all through the National Zoning Atlas.

She is also currently serving as 12th chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation.

GUEST:

• Sara Bronin: Founder of DeSegregateCT and author of Key to the City: How Zoning Shapes Our World

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Today on Where We Live, a Connecticut lab is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to study endometriosis, a painful condition that impacts people with a uterus.

Endometriosis is just one of the many invisible illnesses that impact an estimated 10% of the American population, according to world.com/">Disabled World, an independent Health and Disability news source.

This hour, we talk about why invisible illnesses are difficult to diagnose and how scientists are trying to change that.

GUESTS:

• Michayla Savitt, State Government Reporter, CT Public
• Jennifer Crystal, Author of “One Tick Stopped the Clock”
• Kelsi Carolan, Assistant Professor and licensed clinical social worker, University of Connecticut

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Dating in 2024 can be tough. There are no shortage of stories about dating in the age of Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and more!

But today, we're going to talk about dating, and falling in love, when you're an older adult. Last fall, the spinoff show “The Golden Bachelor” started after-60.html#:~:text=Dating%20among%20older%20Americans%20is">a national conversation about falling in love in midlife and beyond.

Today we hear from experts about dating in this age range, and we’ll even get to hear some love stories that will put "The Notebook" to shame.

And if you are dating or have fallen in love, at any age, we want to hear from you!

GUESTS:

• Dr. Kristina Zdanys: Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Division Chief for Geriatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at UConn Health

• Chip Conley: Founder & CEO of the Modern Elder Academy

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired February 16, 2024.

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Last school year, students across the nation took part in on campus protests to bring attention to the Israel-Hamas War. Overwhelmingly, student protesters were demanding that their colleges divest from Israel.

It led to encampments on college greens, large demonstrations and some arrests of both students and faculties.

At some campuses, college administrations have welcomed student demonstrations, and activism. But this school year has brought new policies around protesting.

Today, we hear from student organizers across Connecticut and hear their perspective on these changes, and plans to organize in the future.

GUESTS:

• Kate Hidalgo Bellows: Staff Reporter at the Chronicle of Higher Education covering today’s students and campus culture
• Dan Barrett: Legal Director of ACLU of Connecticut
• Antonia Kambolis: Junior at Trinity College
• Batya Kline: Student Organizer at Wesleyan University

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As the author of the children’s book My Mama is a Pilot, Saba Shahid says she wants children to feel “represented and valued” through her stories.

Only 1% of commercial airline pilots are women of color. And Saba Shahid’s path to becoming a pilot is a little bit different than most. It actually started as a pandemic hobby!

Saba Shahid is this year’s recipient of the of-leadership.html">Girl Scouts Legacy of Leadership Award. She joins us for the hour to talk about her remarkable career, and her work as a Lifetime Girl Scout.

GUESTS:

• Saba Shahid: Author, pilot, and recipient of this years Girl Scouts of Connecticut 2024 Legacy of Leadership Award
• Elicia Pegues Spearman: CEO of the Girl Scouts of Connecticut
• Stephanie Abrams: President & CEO of the New England Air Museum

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National Hobbit Day is this week. From the rolling hills of the Shire to the great forests of Mirkwood, J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantastical worlds have inspired generations of illustrators to bring imagined concepts to life through art.

This hour, we sit down with three local fantasy and science-fiction illustrators, including David Wenzel, who created a graphic novel adaptation of The Hobbit.

GUESTS:

• David Thorn Wenzel, Illustrator and children's book artist best known for his graphic novel adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit
• Michael Whelan, Fine artist of Imaginative Realism, Illustrator of Science Fiction and Fantasy
• Tom Kidd, Science fiction and fantasy illustrator

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Many wine tastings are about evaluating the aroma, balance and tannin. But for some people, wine is about so much more than that. It’s about history, community, and memory.

Less than 1% of wineries in the United States are owned by Black connoisseurs. But that is starting to change. And with more makers, lovers and sellers of color coming into this industry, who consumes and enjoys wine is evolving too.

Today, we hear from Black and brown winemakers and enthusiasts in Connecticut.

GUESTS:

• Donna Moore: Winemaker at Sunset Hill Vineyard in Lyme, Connecticut

• Marissa Ocasio: Director of Education at Center Wine and Spirits in Glastonbury

• Jennifer Regan Lefebvre: Professor of History at Trinity College, Connecticut and author of the book Imperial Wine: How the British Empire Made Wine’s New World

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It might not feel like it today, but cooler weather is coming. This often means more time spent indoors, and an uptick in contagious diseases such as the flu, the common cold, and yes, COVID-19.

Today, we’ll talk about what you need to know to protect yourself and your family this year. The up-to-date.html">new COVID-19 booster is available. But deciding when you should vaccinate - that’s a case by case basis.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a rare illness that is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Just this week, more mosquitoes tested positive for EEE in Farmington and Manchester. A New Hampshire resident died from this virus in late August. We hear what you need to know about protecting yourself and your family.

An estimated 17 million adults in the nation have long COVID. We’ll get updates on Long COVID and hear from a patient.

GUESTS:

• Dr. Ulysses Wu: Chief Epidemiologist at Hartford Healthcare
• Emily Taylor: President & CEO of Solve M.E./CFS Initiative
• Professor Richard Gard: Retired Professor of Yale School of Music retired and St Thomas More chapel at Yale

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It can be hard for many adults to self-regulate their screen time. For kids, it can be nearly impossible.

According to the And-Watching-TV-054.aspx">American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Children ages 8-12 are spending 4 to 6 hours in front of screens a day. Teens are spending up to 9 hours in front of screens.

According to a report by Pew Research Center, 72% of teachers say cellphone distraction is a major problem in classrooms. Instead of asking teachers to police cellphone use, ct-lamont-school-cellphone-ban-yondr-18704565.php">some schools are choosing to do an outright ban on cellphones. That means absolutely no cellphone use during school hours whether students are in the classroom or in the lunchroom.

Today, we hear what this looks like in practice.

In addition to limiting or banning cellphone use in school, some are calling for more conversations around media literacy, and recognizing the signs of technology addiction and dependence.

If you’re a parent, an educator or maybe even a student, we want to hear from you. What do you think of cellphone bans in school? Is it necessary, and would it actually work?

GUESTS:

• Natasha Singer: technology reporter for the New York Times
• whitson.php">Melissa Whitson: Professor of Psychology at the University of New Haven. She is also a licensed clinical psychologist.
• Rachel Besharat Mann: Associate Professor at the Practice at Wesleyan University.

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Summer camp and after-school care provide kids with a safe place to learn, grow and also give working parents some peace of mind. But they’re not accessible for all kids.

This hour, we look at the impact on families when out-of-classroom programs are out of reach.

GUESTS:

• Corrianne Chipello, Executive Director & CEO, Hartford’s Camp Courant
• Michelle Doucette Cunningham, Executive Director, Connecticut Network for Children and Youth 
• James Jones, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of New Britain

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This hour is bound to make you very hungry because we’re talking about New Haven pizza. This year, U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro officially declared New Haven, the Pizza Capital of America.

Today, we talk to some pizza lovers. We'll also hear about a new documentary that follows pizza lovers beyond Connecticut. New Haven pizza is so legendary that pizza makers are now trying to duplicate it across the country.

But up first, Connecticut doesn’t just have great pizza. Many food influencers are bringing a lot of attention to local restaurants and food makers. We hear from one content creator exploring "the best culinary delights in Connecticut."

GUESTS:

• David Milton: Hartford based content creator and foodie (@DamGram and @DamTok)
• Colin M. Caplan: Founder of the Taste of New Haven, and pizza historian and guru.
• Gorman Bechard: Director of "Pizza, A Love Story" and the new film “A Slice of America: Charred in the Florida Sun”
• Jimmy Fantin: owner of Fantini’s New Haven Style Apizza in Stuart, Florida

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Here in Connecticut and across the country, a growing number of obstetric units are closing, creating “maternity care deserts.”

Today on Where We Live, we explore the long-term impact of quality medical care on maternal health.

And later, we hear from local author, Kassondra Mangione, about her new book: Poemspartum.

GUESTS:

• Katy Golvala, Health Reporter, Connecticut Mirror
• Alecia McGregor, Assistant Professor of Health Policy and Politics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Kassondra Mangione, Author of Poemspartum

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Do two people need to be aligned politically to have a deep connection and strong romantic bond? Can one truly be considered liberal if they habitually swipe left on conservatives?

Today, we're sharing an episode from the podcast "Dating While Gray." Host Laura Stassi talks to older Americans and experts about ideological differences and their role in making and maintaining romantic connections. 

To hear more from "Dating While Gray" visit: www.datingwhilegray.com/

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Last week, floodwaters devastated several communities in Connecticut washing out over two dozen state roads. There have been nearly 200 people killed on Connecticut roads this year alone.

Labor Day weekend is coming up. According to the National Safety Council, there were 455 traffic fatalities nationally over the holiday weekend in 2023.

Today, we’re talking about all things roads, highway and transit, and how you can stay safe when driving throughout our state. Joining us this morning is Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

And if you have a question or comment about highways, buses and all things transit, we want to hear from you! What the roads look like where you live?

GUESTS:

• Garrett Eucalitto: Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner
• Jim Cameron: commuter advocate and author of the weekly opinion column "Talking Transportation" in the Connecticut Mirror

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It’s been a summer with all sorts of weather. We’ve seen flooding, and high heat putting our gardens through all sorts of chaos. Today, horticulturist Charlie Nardozzi join us to talk about this hot, cold, wet, dry, stormy, sunny chaotic gardening year!

It’s not too late to start planting your fall crops. We hear what plants could thrive this season as autumn rapidly approaches.

August is Tree Check Month. We learn what you can do to preserve the trees where you live. Although spring gardening might feel ages away, it’s also a good time to think about starting a community garden!

GUESTS:

• Charlie Nardozzi: horticulturist and host of the Connecticut Garden Journal

• Cordalie Benoit: member of the Connecticut Community Gardening Association and Board Member and VP of the American Community Gardening Association

• Cameron Pierce: Arborist and District Manager for Davey Tree Expert Company

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Every presidential election, campaigns flood our TVs with political ads. Back in 1952, “Ike for President” became the very first political advertisement on TV. Dwight Eisenhower's campaign may have been the first to use television like this. But it’s certainly not the last.

Today, more than 70 years later, political ads are everywhere. In recent weeks, both the Kamala Harris and Donald Trump campaigns have ramped up their advertising. And it’s no longer just on our TV screens; it’s on social media platforms, too.

This hour, we’re looking at political advertising during the 2024 election cycle from the messages we’re seeing to how that impacts what we do at the ballot box.

What kinds of messages are you seeing?

GUEST:

• Erika Franklin Fowler: Professor of Government at Wesleyan University and co-director of the Wesleyan Media Project

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Getting a doctor’s appointment is hard. But for the incarcerated population in Connecticut, it’s nearly impossible. An internal review showed that many incarcerated persons were denied medical care leading to severe consequences including medical emergencies and even death.

Today, we get an update on what we’re seeing in doc-prisoners-suffer-die-medical-health-care-19610838.php">Connecticut prison systems, and hear from those who had loved ones in the system.

The U.S. The District Court recently ruled that transgender people who are incarcerated in Connecticut prisons are now entitled to gender-affirming health care.  

But as we’ve learned this morning, receiving any type of health care when in the prison system is challenging.

GUESTS:

• Jacqueline Rabe Thomas: reporter with Connecticut Insider

• Elana Bildner: Senior Staff Attorney at the ACLU Connecticut

• Tanisha Hill
• Beth Ann Rovelli

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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This past weekend floodwaters devastated several communities in Connecticut washing out over two dozen state roads. It also took the lives of two Connecticut residents.

Nearly ten inches of rain fell in a matter of hours in certain parts of the state. weather-sunday-training-thunderstorms-19664059.php?utm_content=hed&sid=5e31a85095a7a14ff560fb01&ss=A&st_rid=b6d49345-25fd-48f2-803b-9d5ce96d0a17&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=CT_INS_Briefing">This is equivalent to three months of rainfall. That’s according to Connecticut Insider.

Today, we talk about what we saw in our state. With several roads destroyed and businesses impacted by flooding, many are thinking about how to prepare for future severe storms.

This hurricane season is set to be more active and more severe, so what does that mean for our infrastructure and our roads?

GUESTS:

• Abby Brone: Housing Reporter for Connecticut Public

• Michayla Savitt: State Government Reporter for Connecticut Public

• Michael Dietz: Extension Educator at UConn and Director of the CT Institute of Water Resources

• Alec Slatky: Director of Public Affairs at AAA Northeast

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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More workers than ever are working a hybrid work schedule - part time in the office and part time at home. According to a Gallup Poll, challenges-hybrid-work.aspx">nearly 40% of hybrid workers can set their own schedule.

Yet burnout feels more apparent than ever before.

Many offices are searching to find solutions to provide better work-life balance including the four day work week. Today, we revisit this topic and explore others that claim to give employees more of their time back.

And we want to hear from you. What’s your schedule like in the office these days? Would you rather work a four day week?

GUESTS:

• Alex Soojung-Kim Pang: Director of Research and Innovation at 4-Day Week Global

• Lynne C Vincent: Associate Professor of Management, Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University

• Robert C. Bird: Professor of Business Law, School of Business at University of Connecticut

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired April 30, 2024.

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It's an hour for puzzle lovers! Everdeen Mason, Editorial Director of Games for The New York Times and Joel Fagliano, Digital Puzzles Editor and Creator of The Mini Crossword talk about The Crossword, Spelling Bee, Connections and more. Plus, we’re celebrating 10 years of the Mini!

GUESTS:

• director-mason.html">Everdeen Mason: Editorial Director for Games for The New York Times

• games-crossword-fagliano.html">Joel Fagliano: Digital Puzzles Editor and Creator of The Mini Crossword for The New York Times

This episode of Where We Live was produced by Robyn Doyon-Aitken, Catherine Shen, Meg Dalton, Tess Terrible, and Meg Fitzgerald.

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Today on Where We Live, states across New England are investing in offshore wind turbines – a renewable energy source that is relatively new to the United States.

But while offshore wind has a proven track record in other countries, critics worry their costs outweigh their benefits.

Reporters covering the battle over offshore wind, Luther Turmelle and Jan Ellen Spiegel, join us. And UConn political science professor, Luther Scruggs, helps us understand why offshore wind has become a political issue.

GUESTS:

• Jan Ellen Spiegel, freelance Environment and Energy Reporter 
• Luther Turmelle, Business Reporter, Hearst Connecticut Media Group
• Lyle Scruggs, Political Science Professor, University of Connecticut

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Poet laureates do a lot more than write poetry.

Since 1985, Connecticut state poet laureates have worked to promote the literary arts and poetry throughout the Nutmeg state, visiting schools, performing spoken word and passing on poetry to the next generation of writers.

There is no straight path to this position. Some of our guests today have been writing poetry all their lives. Others got bitten by the poetry bug a little later.

Today, three poet laureates from around our state join us in the studio.

GUESTS:

• Antoinette Brim Bell: Connecticut State Poet Laureate

• Nadia Sims: Manchester Poet Laureate

• Frederick-Douglass Knowles II: Hartford Poet laureate

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Even before the pandemic, half of all adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. In 2023, general-social-connection-advisory.pdf">a report from Surgeon General Vivek Murthy showed that loneliness and isolation has physical consequences like increased risk of heart disease, stroke and dementia.

Murthy stressed how social connection is the key to individual and community health and well being. This idea of social connection is something that today’s guest has spent a lot of time focused on.

Deb Bibbins is the Founder and CEO of For All Ages, an organization uniting older adults and younger generations, and its statewide initiative; the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness.

We spoke to her at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven. She talks about how social connection is the foundation of our health.

GUESTS:

• Deb Bibbins: Founder and CEO of For All Ages and the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness

Listen back to our additional coverage on loneliness:

• What’s going on with loneliness?

• 'What's eating at America': Addressing the loneliness and isolation epidemic

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

This episode originally aired on July 28, 2024.

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June is Infertility Awareness Month.

According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 6 people are now affected by infertility. A new study suggests that microplastics might be impacting male infertility.

And while technological advances offer opportunities and hope for many would-be parents, treatments like IVF are expensive, and they’re not available for everyone. Plus, they don’t always work.

Navigating infertility can be an emotional for all those seeking parenthood. Today, we'll hear one local's couple journey. And we want to hear yours too. What's your infertility story?

GUESTS:

• Dr. Maya Barsky: Lead Physician at The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services and Assistant Professor in the Department of OB/GYN at UCONN School of Medicine

• Anthony Edwards and Yaneeke Calderon: a couple living in Connecticut.

If you need support, you can call the Resolve Helpline at 866.668.2566 or visit www.resolve.org.

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Dylan Reyes contributed to this show which originally aired June 21, 2024.

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Many of us grew up with classic comics such as the funnies in the Sunday newspaper! But comics aren’t just tiny anecdotes of humor anymore. They tackle serious content, reaching readers of all ages. And with more artists and authors coming on the scene, we are seeing more diverse stories and storytelling.

And although newspaper comics aren’t going anywhere, graphic novels are reigning the day. 35 million graphic novels were sold in 2022, making it the third best selling genre of book.

Today, we hear from local cartoonists about their work, and hear about the evolution of comics and graphic novels. reasons-graphic-novels-can-be-great-young-readers.html">A local librarian joins us as well who says that graphic novels are serious reading.

Have you picked up a graphic novel this year? We want to hear from you.

GUESTS:

• Maria Scrivan: author and cartoonist living in Greenwich, Connecticut

• KC Councilor: a local cartoonist and associate professor of communication at Southern Connecticut State University

• Stephanie Smith: Teen Librarian at the Avon Free Public Library

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Many wine tastings are about evaluating the aroma, balance and tannin. But for some people, wine is about so much more than that. It’s about history, community, and memory.

Less than 1% of wineries in the United States are owned by Black connoisseurs. But that is starting to change. And with more makers, lovers and sellers of color coming into this industry, who consumes and enjoys wine is evolving too.

Today, we hear from Black and brown winemakers and enthusiasts in Connecticut.

GUESTS:

• Donna Moore: Winemaker at Sunset Hill Vineyard in Lyme, Connecticut

• Marissa Ocasio: Director of Education at Center Wine and Spirits in Glastonbury

• Jennifer Regan Lefebvre: Professor of History at Trinity College, Connecticut and author of the book Imperial Wine: How the British Empire Made Wine’s New World

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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The Cambodian genocide took the lives of up to three million people - between 1975 and 1979. Many were forced to work at labor camps where they faced abuse, torture and starvation.

But this is only part one of the story. The lesser known part is the story of Preah Vihear Mountain, where over forty thousand refugees were forced to climb to their death.

Many Cambodian refugees ended up in refugee camps in Thailand. But instead of being processed as refugees, they were forced on buses and driven to Preah Vihear Mountain, which is part of a mountain range between Thailand and Cambodia.

Returning to Cambodia was a devastating experience. Not only were they forced back into the country, but the mountain was filled with landmines, and refugees had no food or water. They were forced to climb down the mountain side, and those who didn’t comply were gunned down

Today, we heard from someone who experienced this firsthand. Bunseng Taing lives in Connecticut and is a survivor of this massacre. He joins us with his son, James Taing. Together, they produced the documentary film west-2.stage.deploys.brightcove.com/details/30089">Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields.

GUESTS:

• James Taing: producer of Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields

• Bunseng Taing: survivor of the Cambodian genocide and author of Under the Naga Tail

• Jenny (JHD) Heikkila Diaz: Professional Learning Coordinator, Connecticut Council for the Social Studies and the Activist in Residence, UConn Asian & Asian American Studies Institute

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Music used in the broadcast:

• "Violin Sneha" by Keo Sokha

• Sarika Keo

• “Mad Because of Loving You" by Sinn Sisamouth

• Come Again Tomorrow by Yol Aularong

Dylan Reyes helped produced this broadcast that originally aired May 21, 2024.

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Carolyn Kuan has been the music director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra since 2011. This hour, we speak to her about her work as a conductor, and the driving forces behind her music.

Like many organizations, Hartford Symphony Orchestra has put forth diversity and inclusivity commitments stating that they are, quote “diversifying programming by considering race, ethnicity and gender identity in the composers whose music performed.” We talk about how the orchestra is striving to become more inclusive and diverse, and what that work looks like.

We’ll also hear from Tyler Kline, he’s a composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a radio program that features work from the great living composers, especially those with underrepresented backgrounds. You can listen to the Modern Notebook on Connecticut Public on Saturdays at 10pm.

GUESTS:

• Carolyn Kuan: Music Director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra

• Tyler Kline: composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a program by PRX, and host of the podcast "Music/Maker"

Hartford Symphony Orchestra musical director Carolyn Kuan talks with Where We Live host Catherine Shen in the WWL studio, May 22, 2024. (3000x2000, AR: 1.5)

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Dylan Reyes contributed to this show which originally aired May 28, 2024

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One in five people will get a skin cancer diagnosis by the time they are 70. That’s according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

There’s many things you can do to prevent skin cancer. Seeking shade during the hours that the sun's rays are the strongest, and wearing sun-protective clothing helps. And then, there’s always sunscreen.

But this iconic lotion skin-cancer-gen-z.html">has been coming under fire. Several social media influencers are claiming that sunscreen, the very thing that is supposed to protect us from skin cancer, has cancer causing ingredients. Today, on Where We Live, we separate fact from fiction when it comes to sunscreen, tanning and skin cancer.

Now we are hearing the sunscreen sold in the United States isn’t as effective as the formulas sold overseas. In early July, Sen. Richard Blumenthal encouraged the Food and Drug Administration to approve more effective ingredients in sunscreens.

Are you wearing sunscreen this summer? Got a question about skin protection?

GUESTS:

• Stacey Mann: Sr. Development Manager at the American Cancer Society and a Melanoma Advocate living in Milford, Connecticut.

• Dr. Kelly Olino: Assistant Professor of Surgical Oncology at Yale School of Medicine

• Caroline Hopkins: Health & Science Reporter who recently reported on sunscreen for the New York Times 

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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This hour Where We Live, we’re sharing a conversation with Sohla El-Waylly. Sohla’s a culinary creator, writer, YouTube star…and a new mom.

Sohla joined the show in between interviews, making Instagram videos and her baby girl’s naps to talk about her first cookbook, Start Here: Instructions for Becoming a Better Cook.

You’ll also meet Marisa Mendez Marthaller. She’s a Certified Postpartum Doula. She’s worked in the hospitality industry and has a degree in Food Studies. Those interests and passions come together in her business; Marisa is known as The Soup Doula in New York City. We talk with Marisa about her work and the healing power of soup.

GUESTS:

• Sohla El-Waylly: Culinary creator, writer, and YouTube star. Sohla’s work has been featured in The New York Times and Bon Appétit and on Food52.com and Serious Eats.com. Her first cookbook is Start Here: Instructions for Becoming a Better Cook (@sohlae)
• Marisa Mendez Marthaller (above): Certified Postpartum Doula, she’s worked in the hospitality industry and has a degree in Food Studies. She’s known as the Soup Doula, based in New York City.

This show was produced by Robyn Doyon-Aitken, Meg Dalton and Tess Terrible, with help from Stephanie Stender and Meg Fitzgerald. Our Social team includes Francesca Fontanez, Martha Castillo and Janae Spinato.

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Slavery has deep roots in Connecticut. Enslaved people built much of the foundation of Connecticut. But this history isn’t usually taught in schools. 

Today, we listen back to a Connecticut Museum of Culture and History panel discussion about that hidden history featuring Connecticut Public’s Diane Orson. Diane is the host of Unforgotten: Connecticut’s Hidden History of Slavery. 

The five-part podcast sheds light on this past but also looks to the future. Later this hour, you’ll hear a preview of an episode about an enslaved musician Sawney Freeman and the people bringing his melodies to life today.

You can hear all the Unforgotten episodes by visiting ctpublic.org/unforgotten.

GUESTS:

• Diane Orson: Special Correspondent at Connecticut Public and longtime reporter and contributor to National Public Radio. She led the reporting for “Unforgotten” and hosted the five-part podcast.

• David Blight: Sterling Professor of American History at Yale University

• Pat Wilson Pheanious: Former Connecticut State Representative. Her ancestors were memorialized with Witness Stones.

• Akeia Dibaros Gomes: senior curator of Maritime Social Histories at the Mystic Seaport Museum

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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All this week on Where We Live, we're turning over the hour to bring you a five-part series about mental health from American Public Media's initiative, Call To Mind. This initiative aims to foster new conversations about mental health, share new knowledge, and empower people to engage in their well-being.

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues are the most common complications during and after pregnancy, yet 75 percent of postpartum problems go untreated. The consequences can be devastating. Suicide and overdoses are leading causes of maternal death in the United States. The Food and Drug Administration recently approved the first-ever pill specifically aimed at postpartum depression, but most health plans don’t cover the medication. This special program looks at the under-recognized public health issue of postpartum depression and the challenge of treatment. We’ll hear first-hand from people who have experienced it.   

For more information visit, calltomindnow.org 

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All this week on Where We Live, we're turning over the hour to bring you a five-part series about mental health from American Public Media's initiative, Call To Mind. This initiative aims to foster new conversations about mental health, share new knowledge, and empower people to engage in their well-being.

Schizophrenia affects about 24 million people worldwide. It can be a disruptive illness, making it difficult to find a meaningful job, attend school or manage relationships. People with schizophrenia require lifelong treatment, but there is hope. A growing body of research shows that with new interventions it’s possible to live well with the illness.  This program shares stories about schizophrenia that don’t make the headlines. We’ll hear from people living with this illness and from leading experts about new treatments that make it possible to manage.      

For more information visit, calltomindnow.org

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All this week on Where We Live, we're turning over the hour to bring you a five-part series about mental health from American Public Media's initiative, Call To Mind. This initiative aims to foster new conversations about mental health, share new knowledge, and empower people to engage in their well-being.

Nearly half of incarcerated Americans have a history of mental illness – that's twice the prevalence of mental illness in the adult population of the United States. People with serious mental illnesses encounter law enforcement and the court system for many reasons. This program brings together stories of people who have lived with mental illness while incarcerated. We also meet mental health providers calling for increased mental health care in prisons and jails and legal experts pioneering new systems.  

For more information visit, calltomindnow.org

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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All this week on Where We Live, we're turning over the hour to bring you a five-part series about mental health from American Public Media's initiative, Call To Mind. This initiative aims to foster new conversations about mental health, share new knowledge, and empower people to engage in their well-being.

Black women and girls experience discrimination, microaggressions and stereotypes every day. Living with daily racism has a profound impact on the mental health, well-being and lives of all those coping with it. This special program explores the unique mental health burdens of Black women and girls in the United States. Through interviews with mental health providers and people sharing their personal stories, we’ll explore the effects of racism and how care systems can shift to better help Black women thrive. 

For more information visit, calltomindnow.org

Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

All this week on Where We Live, we're turning over the hour to bring you a five-part series about mental health from American Public Media's initiative, Call To Mind. This initiative aims to foster new conversations about mental health, share new knowledge, and empower people to engage in their well-being.

People living homeless have higher rates of untreated mental illnesses and substance use disorders than the general population. That can make it difficult to find a permanent place to live. This program will take you to the streets of New York City to hear directly from people who have lived homeless about what they needed most. You’ll also hear from experts who say the best mental health care for people living homeless is no-strings-attached housing.

For more visit: calltomindnow.org

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In this hour, Where We Live is passing the microphone to our colleagues at New Hampshire Public Radio. Hear a conversation from NHPR's 'By Degrees' 2024 Climate Summit.

In this conversation, climate reporters from around the region and NPR discuss the role solutions-based journalism can play in affecting community action and accountability. 

Members of our audience asked: ‘Have we abandoned discussion of ways to reverse climate change? Can journalism reignite that discussion?’ And ‘how do local journalists cope when climate coverage news can feel so daunting, and directly affects communities they live and work in?’

This panel was moderated by NHPR’s Rick Ganley and featured:

• Neela Banerjee: NPR Chief Climate Desk Editor

• Abagael Giles: Climate Reporter for Vermont Public

• Mara Hoplamazian: Climate Reporter for New Hampshire Public Radio

• Paula Moura: Independent audio reporter; formerly of WBUR, Boston

For more information visit, Rising Tide of Solutions Based Climate Reporting

Connecticut Public and New Hampshire Public Radio are members of the New England News Collaborative. For more regional news and stories visit nenc.news.

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In this hour, Where We Live is passing the microphone to our colleagues at New Hampshire Public Radio. Hear a conversation from NHPR's 'By Degrees' 2024 Climate Summit.

In the past year, New England has experienced storms in July, December, January, and April, resulting in flooding and significant property damage from the coast of Maine to the river valleys of Vermont.

These events can be painful. But in our response, we can also catch glimpses of the future. As author and climate activist Rebecca Solnit writes, “Disaster offers a view into another world for ourselves.” But how do we do it? And how do we do it in a sustained, long-term way – around climate solutions that might take years? How do we – at a local level, with our neighbors and local governments — meaningfully create the world we want?

This panel was moderated by Outside/In podcast reporter Justine Paradis and featured:

• Claudia Diezmartinez Peregina: Policy Fellow at the City of Boston’s Environment Department

• Kari White: Director of Community Health Equity at Northern Counties Health Care in the Northeast Kingdom, VT

• Brianna O’Brien: Conservation Coordinator for the Town of Hampton, NH

For more info, visit How Local Communities are Planning for the Future

Connecticut Public and New Hampshire Public Radio are members of the New England News Collaborative. For more regional news and stories visit nenc.news.

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More than 200 Americans visit the emergency department for nonfatal firearm injuries each day. That now includesformer president Donald Trump who was shot in his right ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania over the weekend and brought to the hospital.

Today, we talk about gun violence as a public health crisis. The U.S. Surgeon General recently published a health advisory on the far-reaching consequences of firearm violence. The divide on how to respond to gun violence is deeply polarizing. But seeing it through a public lens perspective could change the conversation. And it can also bring new solutions.

Surviving parents of gun violence victims join us and we also hear from James Dodington, Medical Director at the Center for Injury and Violence Prevention at Yale New Haven Health.

Mark Barden is the co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise. He lost his son Daniel in the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012. We hear from him.

Reverend Sam Saylor lost his son Shane Oliver to gun violence in October 2012.In April 2023, Shane’s daughter and Reverend Saylor’s granddaughter Sec’ret Pierce was killed by a drive-by shooting in Hartford. She was only 12 years old. He joins us as well.

GUESTS:

• Dr. James Dodington: Medical Director at the Center for Injury and Violence Prevention and Associate Professor of Yale School of Medicine
• Mark Barden: co-founder and co-CEO of Sandy Hook Promise
• Reverend Sam Saylor: community activist

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Every year, we produce a summer reading hour to talk about some of our favorite books of this year, and give you recommendations of the best beach reads.

And this year, we’re diving into the illustrious, the notorious, the infamous paperback: the romance novel.

There’s a lot of stigma attached to romance reading, especially within the reading community. But this top grossing genre is actually one of the most popular book genres in the world.

Today, we go beyond harlequin bodice rippers and Fabio and dive into the world of romance with our panel.

Got a favorite romance novel or love story? We want to hear from you.

GUESTS:

• AK Nevermore: president of the Connecticut Romance Writers of America and author living in Connecticut

• Michelle Smith: President/Owner The BookSmiths Shoppe, LLC. in Danbury

• Lauren Anderson: Founder of Possible Futures Bookspace in New Haven.

Authors featured in this broadcast:

• AK Nevermore

• Kristan Higgins

• Amy Neff

• JJ Graham

• Krystal Marquis

• Chloe Liese

Book recommendations from the staff at Connecticut Public

• Normal People, by Sally Rooney

• A Court of Thorns and Roses (series), by Sarah J Mass

• Fourth Wing (Empyrean series), - Rebecca Yarros

• Author Emily Henry

• Author Casey McQuiston

• The Selection, series by Kiera Cass

• Bridgeton, series by Julia Quinn

• The Princess Diaries, series by Meg Cabot

• Conversations with Friends, by Sally Rooney

• Persuasion by Jane Austin

Dylan Reyes contributed to this episode which originally aired May 24, 2024.

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This hour, we’re celebrating some of the most memorable moments with Katie Pellico as she begins another chapter of her career. She'll soon start a new position managing development and communication at Common Ground High School, Urban Farm and Environmental Education Center in New Haven, but we won't soon forget coverage she helped to lead on...

Connecticut's slate of new social studies initiatives and standards:

• 'Think like a historian': State approves new social studies standards November 13, 2023

• 'Teaching with truth and complexity': Checking in on the state's Black and Latino Studies elective August 17, 2023

• Meet the teaching cohort modeling culturally-responsive AAPI education in Connecticut May 19, 2023

• Connecticut tribes co-create state social studies curriculum, centering 'our culture and our ways' January 26, 2023

How scholars are rethinking how history is taught:

• Rewriting the Thanksgiving story, while centering Indigenous voices November 30, 2023

• Examining the history and legacy of 'sundown towns' in Connecticut November 27, 2023

• Uncovering the history of eugenics at Yale University, and its 'afterlives' October 2, 2023

How museums in the state are doing the same:

• Taking a tour of the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut May 6, 2024

• Artist Pablo Delano's 'Museum of the Old Colony' lands at Venice Biennale April 29, 2024

• Exploring the 'new' Yale Peabody Museum April 1, 2024

• Mohamad Hafez installs 'Eternal Cities' at the new Yale Peabody Museum December 4, 2023

• Healing and humanizing through artifact: Visiting the Museum of Jewish Civilization November 16, 2023

• Healing and humanizing through art: Visiting Palestine Museum US in Woodbridge November 9, 2023

Grassroots legislative efforts, including those led by disability groups:

• A look at efforts to improve accessible parking regulation in Connecticut May 9, 2024

• Connecticut disability advocates push for legislation to improve medical access February 15, 2024

• Wheelchair repairs can take months: What local advocates are doing to change that July 17, 2023

• Amazon responds to proposed bill aimed at warehouse 'quotas' May 15, 2023

• Connecticut may continue 'incremental' expansion of HUSKY Health coverage May 4, 2023

• Lawmakers call for nurse protections amid 'patient care crisis' January 24, 2023

Environmental coverage:

• How new federal limits on 'forever chemicals' will affect Connecticut April 22, 2024

• An update on efforts to address flooding in Hartford's North End, plus a look at how farms are faring January 22, 2024

• Connecticut coral could play a key role in climate resilience July 31, 2023

• Seeding the next generation of farmers in Connecticut July 13, 2023

• A look at environmental justice efforts in Connecticut: 'It's everybody's problem' February 28, 2023

And...

• Efforts to clean litter are lifesaving for wildlife July 8, 2024

• 'We need a moonshot for long COVID': What we know (and don't know) about the illness April 18, 2024

• There's no singularity when it comes to honoring Lunar New Year, including in Connecticut April 11, 2024

• Bigfoot gets all the glory, but Connecticut has its own cast of cryptids March 29, 2024

• Author Rebecca F. Kuang on 'Babel,' revolution and students as visionaries March 26, 2024

• 'Kinks in the movement': Staging a curly hair revolution in New Haven March 25, 2024

• Book ban requests still 'soaring' in Connecticut. Plus, vigil held at Capitol for Nex Benedict March 4, 2024

• The 'wild rumpus' continues: Maurice Sendak's legacy lives on at Ridgefield Foundation February 12, 2024

• Connecticut is the land of steady habits, but no steady identity January 25, 2024

• 'Before there was Salem, there was Connecticut': State formally pardons accused witches October 19, 2023

• Cups, discs, wands and swords: Tarot and 'divination' in Connecticut August 11, 2023

• Efforts to protect transgender care in Connecticut June 29, 2023

• The delicate art of obituary-writing May 22, 2023

• Students lead push to observe Muslim holidays in school calendars April 20, 2023

• 'A Scientist's Warning': Dr. Peter Hotez on the dangers of 'anti-science' April 10, 2023

• In 'Reciprocity Project,' Indigenous voices reframe our relationship to the Earth February 10, 2023

• 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' spotlights Connecticut’s 'thriving' drag scene January 27, 2023

• A parent and child's perspectives on the need for trans and nonbinary allyship December 29, 2022

• Honoring Native American veterans November 10, 2022

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It’s hard getting your book published. It’s even harder when you’re an author of color. Between 1950 and 2018, publishing-industry.html">96% of American fiction books published were written by white authors.

Today, hear from two Latina authors in Connecticut about their debut books. They’ll talk about navigating the publishing industry and the importance of centering marginalized voices.

In her novel, The Girls in Queens, Christine Kandic Torres tells the story of two Latinx women coming of age in Queens, New York. In her memoir, A Body Across Two Hemispheres, Victoria Buitron shares how she came of age between Ecuador and the United States.

We'll also hear about their work as editors of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology.

GUESTS:

• Christine Kandic Torres: author of The Girls in Queens and fiction editor of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology

• Victoria Buitron: author of A Body Across Two Hemispheres and nonfiction editor of the 2024 Connecticut Literary Anthology

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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When you think of Hartford, Connecticut, what comes to mind? Maybe Elizabeth Park, good eats, and our state capitol? Odds are, you’re probably not thinking of Hartford as a destination for making movies! But some creatives are trying to change that.

After graduating from the Yale, Connecticut native TJ Noel-Sullivan lived in Los Angeles for a short while, but he found himself drawn back to Hartford. His first feature film is called Midas, it follows three best friends as they attempt to pull off a giant insurance fraud scheme and the entire film was set and shot in Hartford.

He joins us today to talk about the film, and his work to educate the next generation of filmmakers.

GUEST:

• TJ Noel-Sullivan: writer and director of Midas

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Stamford-based nonprofit Keep America Beautiful found almost 50 billion pieces of litter along U.S. road- and waterways in 2020.

This hour, we’re spotlighting some of the small-but-mighty efforts to clean litter and protect wildlife in Connecticut. New Haven river keeper Peter Davis and his assistant David Burgess have been clearing parks and rivers in the Elm City for decades, one trash bag at a time. He joins us.

Local osprey nest monitor Nancy Ellen Harrigan James will also join, along with ecologist and Homegrown National Park co-founder Dr. Douglas Tallamy.

GUESTS:

• Peter Davis: New Haven River Keeper

• Nancy Ellen Harrigan James: Osprey Nest Monitor

• Aaron Goode: Environmental Advocate; Secretary, New Haven Bioregional Group

• Dr. Douglas Tallamy: Entomologist and Ecologist; Author; Co-Founder, Homegrown National Park

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Dating in 2024 can be tough. There are no shortage of stories about dating in the age of Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and more!

But today, we're going to talk about dating, and falling in love, when you're an older adult. Last fall, the spinoff show “The Golden Bachelor” started after-60.html#:~:text=Dating%20among%20older%20Americans%20is">a national conversation about falling in love in midlife and beyond.

Today we hear from experts about dating in this age range, and we’ll even get to hear some love stories that will put "The Notebook" to shame.

And if you are dating or have fallen in love, at any age, we want to hear from you!

GUESTS:

• Dr. Kristina Zdanys: Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Division Chief for Geriatric Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at UConn Health

• Chip Conley: Founder & CEO of the Modern Elder Academy

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired February 16, 2024.

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Finding long-term resources and programs for young people with autism can be challenging, and in some cases, incredibly disheartening.

The needs of autistic youth can vary. As a spectrum disorder, some diagnosed with high functioning autism can live relatively normal lives pursuing college, careers and relationships.

But others require more support. Those with intellectual disabilities and communication challenges often require lifelong support to assist with tasks of daily living.

One school that claimed to fulfill that need was Shrub Oak International School in New York. This school takes students from across the country, including Connecticut. But a recent investigation by ProPublica showed that this institution that costs nearly $600,000 a year is failing its students. This investigation uncovered several accusations of neglect and abuse.

Today, we hear about the investigation by ProPublica. The Office of the Child Advocate weighs in and hear about a recent complaint against High Road Schools in Connecticut.

GUESTS:

• Sarah Eagan: Connecticut Child Advocate

• Jennifer Smith Richards: reporter for ProPublica

• Jodi Cohen: Reporter for ProPublica

• Dr. Mary Doherty: founder of Autistic Doctors International and anesthesiologist

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Historian and scholar Deb Harkness was studying the intersection of science and magic in history and the humanities, when she was struck by the trend of "vampire boyfriend" stories in books and popular culture. She asked herself, "What if there really are these creatures living around us? What do they do for a living? Why have I never met any of them? And would it really be a great thing to have a supernatural significant other? I don't think so... I thought, right now people can't handle the idea of two women or two men getting married, and yet we think we want a vampire boyfriend. What is going on?"

These questions yielded the acclaimed historical fantasy series, "All Souls." The latest installment, titled "The Black Bird Oracle," is due out July 16. With ancestral ties to accused witches in New England, Harkness says she considers the book a "love letter to my Connecticut and New England ancestors."

This hour, Harkness joins us to discuss.

GUESTS:

• Dr. Deborah Harkness: Historian; Author, "All Souls" series and "The Black Bird Oracle"; Professor, University of Southern California

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Even before the pandemic, half of all adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. In 2023, general-social-connection-advisory.pdf">a report from Surgeon General Vivek Murthy showed that loneliness and isolation has physical consequences like increased risk of heart disease, stroke and dementia.

Murthy stressed how social connection is the key to individual and community health and well being. This idea of social connection is something that today’s guest has spent a lot of time focused on.

Deb Bibbins is the Founder and CEO of For All Ages, an organization uniting older adults and younger generations, and its statewide initiative; the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness.

We spoke to her at the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven. She talks about how social connection is the foundation of our health.

GUESTS:

• Deb Bibbins: Founder and CEO of For All Ages and the Connecticut Collaborative to End Loneliness

Listen back to our additional coverage on loneliness:

• What’s going on with loneliness?

• 'What's eating at America': Addressing the loneliness and isolation epidemic

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Education budget cuts from this legislative session are slamming schools at all levels, from early education to higher education.

This hour, we hear from Connecticut Mirror budget reporter Keith Phaneuf, and education reporter Jessika Harkay.

Plus, we check in with the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents, and Chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities system Terrence Cheng.

GUESTS:

• Keith Phaneuf: Budget Reporter, Connecticut Mirror
• Jessika Harkay: Education Reporter, Connecticut Mirror
• Fran Rabinowitz: Executive Director, Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents
• Terrence Cheng: Chancellor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities

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Housing in Connecticut has not only gotten more expensive, it’s much harder to find. The state vacancy rate is only 3.5% and the median rent is $2,000.

Housing touches every aspect of our life. From health to education to community, where you live, makes a difference.

So why is housing so hard to find? There’s no easy answer, but our guests say that in order to create a better future where housing is both accessible and affordable, you have to look at the housing systems that have been set up in the past.

This week, Connecticut Public will premiere the documentary Fighting For Home: How Housing Policy Keeps Connecticut Segregated. Today, we’ll hear documentary producer Sabrina Buckwalter and those featured in the film.

But before we get to that, we just had the first major heatwave of the summer. haven-pools-hot-summer-19523526.php?utm_campaign=twsocialflow&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=nhregister">If you are hoping to cool down at a local pool, your options might be a bit limited this season. We learn why.

GUESTS:

• Oscar Rodriguez: the Director of Aquatics, at the Leadership, Education, and Athletics in Partnership, Inc. (LEAP) in New Haven
• Sabrina Buckwalter: producer of Fighting For Home: How Housing Policy Keeps Connecticut Segregated
• Jacqueline Rabe Thomas: reporter with Hearst Connecticut Media Group or CT Insider
• Shanay Fulton:Commissioner of Planning and Zoning in Middletown

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A recent UConn study found that three-quarters of Black households with cars in the U.S. spend over 15% of their monthly income on car-related expenses. For these researchers, transportation shouldn’t have to mean car ownership.

This hour, we spotlight "walkability" and public transportation alternatives. Hear from city planners and civil engineers who are driving the conversation forward to deprioritize drivers and "stroads."

"Our mistake over the years is that we have allowed streets to become half roads and roads to become half streets," writes city planner Jeff Speck. "On one, commerce has been sacrificed to speed. On the other, speed has been sacrificed to commerce."

GUESTS:

• Dr. Norman Garrick: Professor Emeritus of Civil Engineering at the University of Connecticut

• Jeff Speck: City Planner and Author of Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time

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June is Infertility Awareness Month.

According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 6 people are now affected by infertility. A new study suggests that microplastics might be impacting male infertility.

And while technological advances offer opportunities and hope for many would-be parents, treatments like IVF are expensive, and they’re not available for everyone. Plus, they don’t always work.

Navigating infertility can be an emotional for all those seeking parenthood. Today, we'll hear one local's couple journey. And we want to hear yours too. What's your infertility story?

GUESTS:

• Dr. Maya Barsky: Lead Physician at The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services and Assistant Professor in the Department of OB/GYN at UCONN School of Medicine
• Anthony Edwards and Yaneeke Calderon: a couple living in Connecticut.

If you need support, you can call the Resolve Helpline at 866.668.2566 or visit www.resolve.org.

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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In 2023, book club event listings grew 24% over the prior year according to the ticketing platform Eventbrite. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and RuPaul are among the celebrities who have launched their own book clubs.

This hour, we hear about these new communities of readers, and how the influence of BookTok and BookStagram factors.

We’re joined by one Silent Book Club chapter taking off in New Haven, and a shoreline-area business owner arranging “Blind Dates with a Book.” Plus, Anthony Bagley founded “Black Kidds Read Too” in his hometown.

GUESTS:

• Britt Rivera: Content Creator; Founder, Silent Book Club New Haven
• Anthony "Da Kidd PG" Bagley: CEO and Founder, A Kidd From New Haven
• Alyssa Korzon: Co-Owner, Bookish Babes and Brews

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This week, Muslims across the world celebrate the holiday of Eid-al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice.

Today, we are hearing from Muslims around Connecticut celebrating this sacred and special time honoring those who have made the Islamic pilgrimage known as Hajj.

We’ll hear from Connecticut residents, including one who is making the Islamic pilgrimage known as Hajj. If you’re celebrating this holiday, we want to hear from you.

GUESTS:

• Khaleel Rahman: a producer with Audacious with Chion Wolf on Connecticut Public

• Imam Safwan Shaikh: Farmington Valley American Muslim Center

• Asif Chaudhry: Connecticut resident taking a Eid-al-Adha pilgrimage this year

• Dia Fortenberry: Assistant Athletic Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Engagement at Wesleyan University and Speakers Bureau with the Muslim Coalition of Connecticut

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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In the LGBTQ community, “found” or “chosen family” can be crucial. It's the idea of a social support system beyond your biological family, and one of the themes Ella Dawson explores in her book, But How Are You, Really?

This hour, the sex and culture columnist from Connecticut joins us to discuss her first novel, found family, burnout, second-chance romances, and much more.

GUESTS:

• Ella Dawson: Sex and Culture Critic; Author, "But How Are You, Really?"

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Fools and wise man, come hither! This summer’s day program of Where We Live will dedicate an hour to the master of comedy and tragedy alike, Sir William Shakespeare.

Outdoor productions of William Shakespeare’s plays go back to well…the time of William Shakespeare! And every summer this tradition comes alive on stages across Connecticut.

Today, we talk about Shakespeare in the park, the common and even - the sound! We’re joined by thespians across the state staging productions of this iconic playwright. 

GUESTS:

• James Bundy: Dean and Artistic Director of the David Geffen School of Drama and Yale Repertory Theatre
• Laura Sheehen: Co-founder of Capital Classics Theatre Company in Hartford
• Aaron Simms: Managing and Producing Director of Shakespeare on the Sound in Norwalk, Connecticut

Theater companies featured in this broadcast, including summer 2024 productions:

• Shakespeare on the Sound - Norwalk
  • June 12- June 30: Romeo and Juliet, Pinkney Park, Rowayton, CT
• Breakdancing Shakespeare - Hartford Stage
  • June 17 – July 27: Hartford Stage
• Capital Classics - Hartford
  • July 10 – August 4: The Greater Hartford Shakespeare Festival will feature two full-length productions of Hamlet and The Taming of the Shrew — outdoors — on the campus of the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford.
• Shakesperience - Litchfield Hills (Washington Depot, CT)
  • August 7-11: Romeo and Juliet, River Walk Pavilion, Washington Depot, CT (Free Admission)
• Elm Shakespeare - New Haven
  • August 16 – Sunday, Sept 1: Richard III, Edgerton Park, New Haven (Free Admission)
• Oddfellows Playhouse Youth Theatre - Middletown

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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In Connecticut, there are LGBTQ community centers in New Haven, Norwalk and, most recently, Bridgeport. There have also been ct-lgbtq-pride-queer-hub-18155964.php">recent efforts to launch a queer hub in West Hartford.

These spaces are important for community, safety, resources, and even are associated with reduced suicide risk among LGBTQ youth, according to the Trevor Project.

Connecticut Public reported on the New Haven Pride Center’s move to a larger location in January. They say this will allow them to offer more community resources.

This hour, we hear from Juancarlos Soto, executive director of the New Haven Pride Center. We'll also hear from a researcher who has measured the importance of these community hubs, and the resources they offer.

Plus, we get an update on the policies protecting and restricting LGBTQ rights in the U.S. from The 19th's LGBTQ+ reporter Orion Rummler.

GUESTS:

• Orion Rummler: LGBTQ+ Reporter, The 19th
• Juancarlos Soto: Executive Director, New Haven Pride Center
• Dr. Dani Chiaramonte: Associate Research Scientist, Yale LGBTQ Mental Health Initiative

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Connecticut has had its share of intense storms, but this year’s hurricane is expected to be even longer and more intensive than ever before.

Today, we talk about what to expect and how to prepare.

Damage from hurricanes doesn’t just happen on the coast. We hear from farmers inland on how they’re preparing.

Got a question about hurricane season?

GUESTS:

• Juliana Barrett: Extension Educator Emerita, University of Connecticut and the Connecticut Sea Grant College Program
• Evan Lentz: Assistant Extension Educator of Fruit Production and Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at UConn
• Rebecca Toms: Communications Coordinator, UConn Extension- Sustainable Food Systems

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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For decades, there were cities and towns that were all-white on purpose. These communities are known as "sundown towns." Because this practice was both formal and informal, researchers put together a database of these laws, customs and firsthand accounts, under the leadership of the late sociologist and civil rights champion James Loewen.

At the peak of the exclusionary practice in 1970, an estimated 10,000 communities across the U.S. kept out African-Americans through "force, law, or custom." Many sundown suburbs also excluded Jewish and Chinese Americans, and other minority groups.

There are 40 towns listed as possible or probable past sundown towns in Connecticut. This hour, we hear about this history and what it can tell us. You can add to this research too.

GUESTS:

• Dr. Stephen Berrey: Assistant Professor of American Culture and History, University of Michigan

• Logan Jaffe: Reporter, ProPublica

• Paul Saubestre: Volunteer Researcher, Hamden Historical Society

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired November 27, 2023.

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Today, we get an update from humanitarian aid organizations with workers on the ground in Gaza and how they are addressing this continuing crisis. Before these airstrikes, the area was facing famine, mass displacement, and severe trauma from witnessing the ongoing war in Gaza.

We also get an update on other crises happening around the globe including the ongoing conflict in Sudan, and the parallels between these conflicts. The conflict in Sudan began over a year ago in April 2023, when fighting broke out between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support forces. More than 14,000 people have died, and more than 8 million people have been displaced.

We talk about the legal definition of genocide and how that word is impacting how we view crises around the globe.

GUESTS

• Dr. Ali Elaydi: Orthopedic Surgeon with FAJR Scientific
• Provash Budden: Americares Deputy SVP of Emergency Programs
• Dr. Abdelillah Douda: Coordinator of the Sudanese Refugee in Connecticut and Digital Coordinator of Feeding Centers
• Nathaniel Raymond: Executive Director of the Humanitarian Research Lab at the Yale School of Public Health.

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Author Garrard Conley published his first book in 2016, "Boy Erased". The bestselling memoir, relaying Conley's experience undergoing conversion therapy at 19, inspired a major motion picture two years later.

This hour, Conley discusses his newest book and his first foray into fiction. "All the World Beside" explores queerness in Puritan New England. Set in 1700s Massachusetts and inspired by Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter," an affair unfolds between Arthur Lyman, a physician, and Nathaniel Whitfield, a reverend.

GUESTS:

• Garrard Conley: Author, All the World Beside and Boy Erased

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 4.

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Beloved Muppet Elmo recently asked social media a simple question, "How is everybody doing?" The answers ranged from incredulous to raging. The trauma-dumping on Elmo begged the question: Are we burnt out?

Burnout has been reported in many industries: Connecticut Public has previously covered burnout in health care, and among early child care educators and teachers, for example. When Where We Live covered burnout in the nonprofit world in 2022, our phone lines were flooded.

This hour, we hear from Emily Ballesteros, a management coach and the author of the new book, The Cure for Burnout. She defines the phenomenon, and fields your questions.

Plus, Elizabeth Thompson is a local news researcher focused on burnout in local journalism.

A 2020 report from UNC found that more than one-quarter of American newspapers had shut down since 2005, forcing more than half of all local journalists out of the industry, and "leaving many remaining newsrooms staffed by a small number of reporters burdened by excessive workloads and unable to dedicate themselves to particular topics of local interest."

GUESTS:

• Emily Ballesteros: Management Coach; Author, The Cure for Burnout
• Elizabeth Thompson: Local News Researcher, Center for Innovation and Sustainability in Local Media at the University of North Carolina

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show that originally aired February 29, 2024.

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You’re never too young to learn about climate change. Younger Americans are more likely to engage with the issue, according to research on Gen Z and Millennials from Pew.

This hour, we hear from the authors of three children’s books about climate change, and taking action, including UConn sociologist Dr. Phoebe Godfrey, meteorologist Paul Douglas, environmental scientist Lena Champlin, and resident in psychiatry Jeremy Wortzel.

GUESTS:

• Dr. Phoebe Godfrey: Professor in Residence of Sociology, University of Connecticut

• Dr. Jeremy Wortzel: Co-Author, Coco’s Fire: Changing Climate Anxiety Into Climate Action

• Dr. Lena Champlin: Co-Author and Illustrator, Coco’s Fire: Changing Climate Anxiety Into Climate Action

• Paul Douglas: Meteorologist; Author, A Kid's Guide to Saving the Planet: It's not Hopeless and We're Not Helpless

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 25.

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You’ve heard of Bigfoot and Nessie, but did you know Connecticut is home to a host of creatures, or "cryptids"?

Cryptozoology is the study of animals whose existence is a matter of debate. While Bigfoot sightings have been reported where we live, sea serpents, the Glastonbury Glawackus, and plenty of others call Connecticut home.

This hour, we hear from Patrick Scalisi and Valerie Ruby-Omen, the author and illustrator of a new field guide to this cast of Connecticut cryptids.

Plus, Stephen Olbrys Gencarella explains how folklore can deepen our understanding of these fantastic creatures, and how the stories about them are shaped over time.

• Patrick Scalisi: Author, Connecticut Cryptids: A Field Guide to the Weird and Wonderful Creatures of the Nutmeg State
• Valerie Ruby-Omen: Illustrator, Connecticut Cryptids
• Stephen Olbrys Gencarella: Professor of Folklore Studies, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show that originally aired on January 18, 2024.

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"An act of translation is always an act of betrayal."

This idea, and the questions it inspires, are central to author Rebecca or RF Kuang’s 2022 novel, Babel: Or the Necessity of Violence: An Arcane History of the Oxford Translators' Revolution.

As the title promises, the book also explores the nature of revolution and the "necessity of violence," in addition to those complex questions surrounding the art of translation.

This hour, we revisit our conversation with the author, which was focused on the award-winning book, during an event organized by local bookseller RJ Julia.

On the importance of student revolutions, Kuang reflects, "The student's weakness is precisely his allure. The fact that the student is so naïve and doesn't have the jadedness of somebody who's been through more; the fact that students are dreamers, that they are romantic idealists; that kind of hope, that kind of ability to imagine an alternate future is beautiful and it matters and I hope we keep seeing that."

GUESTS:

• RF or Rebecca Kuang: Award-winning author of the Poppy War trilogy, Babel: An Arcane History, Yellowface, and Katabasis (forthcoming). She has an MPhil in Chinese Studies from Cambridge and an MSc in Contemporary Chinese Studies from Oxford; she is now pursuing a PhD in East Asian Languages and Literatures at Yale.

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired December 18, 2023.

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Carolyn Kuan has been the music director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra since 2011. This hour, we speak to her about her work as a conductor, and the driving forces behind her music.

Like many organizations, Hartford Symphony Orchestra has put forth diversity and inclusivity commitments stating that they are, quote “diversifying programming by considering race, ethnicity and gender identity in the composers whose music performed.”We talk about how the orchestra is striving to become more inclusive and diverse, and what that work looks like.

We’ll also hear from Tyler Kline, he’s a composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a radio program that features work from the great living composers, especially those with underrepresented backgrounds. You can listen to the Modern Notebook on Connecticut Public on Saturdays at 10pm.

GUESTS:

• Carolyn Kuan: Music Director at the Hartford Symphony Orchestra
• Tyler Kline: composer and host of the Modern Notebook, a program by PRX, and host of the podcast "Music/Maker"

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Every year, we produce a summer reading hour to talk about some of our favorite books of this year, and give you recommendations of the best beach reads.

And this year, we’re diving into the illustrious, the notorious, the infamous paperback: the romance novel.

There’s a lot of stigma attached to romance reading, especially within the reading community. But this top grossing genre is actually one of the most popular book genres in the world.

Today, we go beyond harlequin bodice rippers and Fabio and dive into the world of romance with our panel.

Got a favorite romance novel or love story? We want to hear from you.

GUESTS:

• AK Nevermore: president of theConnecticut Romance Writers Association and author living in Connecticut
• Michelle Smith: President/Owner The BookSmiths Shoppe, LLC. in Danbury
• Lauren Anderso: Founder ofPossible Futures Bookspace in New Haven.

Authors featured in this broadcast:

• AK Nevermore
• Kristan Higgins
• Amy Neff
• JJ Graham
• Krystal Marquis
• Chloe Liese

Book recommendations from the staff at Connecticut Public

• Normal People, by Sally Rooney
• A Court of Thorns and Roses (series), by Sarah J Mass
• Fourth Wing (Empyrean series), - Rebecca Yarros
• Author Emily Henry
• Author Casey McQuiston
• The Selection, series by Kiera Cass
• Bridgeton, series by Julia Quinn
• The Princess Diaries, series by Meg Cabot
• Conversations with Friends, by Sally Rooney
• Persuasion by Jane Austin

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Maurice Sendak is often celebrated for his contributions to children’s book art. You’re likely familiar with Where The Wild Things Are, or even Higglety Pigglety Pop. But in the late artist’s own words, "I do not believe that I have ever written a children's book. I do not know how to write a children’s book. How do you set out to write a children’s book?"

This hour, we’re exploring the Maurice Sendak Foundation in Ridgefield, where Sendak lived for forty years. There, the many layers of his artistic legacy live on, with the help of the experts and friends who knew and loved him best. We hear from them.

Twelve years after the artist's passing, the Foundation and HarperCollins are releasing Ten Little Rabbits.

GUESTS:

• Lynn Caponera: President and Treasurer, Maurice Sendak Foundation

• Dr. Jonathan Weinberg: Curator, Maurice Sendak Foundation

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired February 12, 2024.

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The Cambodian genocide took the lives of up to three million people - between 1975 and 1979. Many were forced to work at labor camps where they faced abuse, torture and starvation.

But this is only part one of the story. The lesser known part is the story of Preah Vihear Mountain, where over forty thousand refugees were forced to climb to their death.

Many Cambodian refugees ended up in refugee camps in Thailand. But instead of being processed as refugees, they were forced on buses and driven to Preah Vihear Mountain, which is part of a mountain range between Thailand and Cambodia.

Returning to Cambodia was a devastating experience. Not only were they forced back into the country, but the mountain was filled with landmines, and refugees had no food or water. They were forced to climb down the mountain side, and those who didn’t comply were gunned down

Today, we heard from someone who experienced this firsthand. Bunseng Taing lives in Connecticut and is a survivor of this massacre. He joins us with his son, James Taing. Together, they produced the documentary film west-2.stage.deploys.brightcove.com/details/30089">Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields.

GUESTS:

• James Taing: producer of Ghost Mountain: The Second Killing Fields

• Bunseng Taing: survivor of the Cambodian genocide and author of Under the Naga Tail

• Jenny (JHD) Heikkila Diaz: Professional Learning Coordinator, Connecticut Council for the Social Studies and the Activist in Residence, UConn Asian & Asian American Studies Institute

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Music used in the broadcast:

• "Violin Sneha" by Keo Sokha

• Sarika Keo

• “Mad Because of Loving You" by Sinn Sisamouth

• Come Again Tomorrow by Yol Aularong

Dylan Reyes helped produced this broadcast.

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The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicals known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water.

This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown.

Plus, Attorney General William Tong gives an update on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS.

GUESTS:

• William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General

• Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health

• Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror

Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 22.

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In 2015, journalist Elise Hu moved to South Korea to open the NPR Seoul bureau. During her time in South Korea, she witnessed the rise of K-beauty culture or “Korean beauty.”

K-beauty encompasses a multitude of beauty treatments. It doesn’t just include luxury skincare lines, and expensive facemasks; there's also LED light therapy, injections, fillers, and a myriad of options for plastic surgery.

These procedures are becoming an increasingly normal part of daily life in South Korea, but also in the United States. They are also more accessible than ever to anyone that wants to change the way they look.

Although some are starting to question the pursuit of keeping up with today’s beauty standards, this multibillion dollar beauty industry isn't going away.

Today, Elise Hu joins us on Where We Live to talk about her book Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital.

We talk about the pursuit and pain of keeping up with today’s beauty standards.

GUEST:

• Elise Hu: host of TED Talks Daily and also a host-at-large for NPR. She is the author of Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired September 19, 2023.

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Turtles are among one of the oldest reptiles to walk the planet. Although turtles often live long lifespans and are among some of the most resilient animals on the planet, human presence has meant a huge threat to their species. 

In her new book Of Time and Turtles, Sy Montgomery says turtles live “slow.” She spent time working with the people who have dedicated their lives to rehabilitating these fascinating creatures, and she joins us to talk about her book.

And Matt Patterson, fellow turtle lover, illustrator of this book and their accompanying picture book The Book of Turtles, joins us too. He is also a wildlife artist and sculptor.

We'll learn about what’s being done to care for and protect these animals.

GUESTS:

• Sy Montgomery: Author of Of Time and Turtles

• Matt Patterson: Illustrator of The Book of Turtles and wildlife artist

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired October 3, 2023.

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Connecticut Public has spent the past year investigating political dysfunction, , allegations of absentee ballot misconduct, and machine politics in Bridgeport.

The investigation has culminated in a four part series called “In Absentia.” Today, we hear the final episode of this podcast and speak to members of the Accountability Project, Connecticut Public’s investigative team.

You can listen back to all the episodes on ctpublic.org/bpt or wherever you get your podcasts.

GUESTS:

• Bria Lloyd: Investigative Reporter for the Accountability Project

• Jim Haddadin: Editor for The Accountability Project

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Every year, a cohort of emerging artists and curators gather at NXTHVN, a fellowship program located in the heart of New Haven's Dixwell neighborhood, and "a new national arts model that empowers artists, curators, and the community through education and access to a vibrant ecosystem."

This hour, we hear from Marquita Flowers and Clare Patrick, current curatorial fellows at NXTHVN. Their exhibition, "To Echo A Shadow," explores the links between industrialization and forced migration. We discuss how the Dixwell neighborhood, and its history, were embraced in the exhibition programming.

Plus, former NXTHVN fellow Michelle Phuong Ho discusses what artist community means to her. She recently launched the literary salon "quietly wild."

GUESTS:

• Marquita Flowers: Curatorial Fellow 2023-2024, NXTHVN

• Clare Patrick: Curatorial Fellow 2023-2024, NXTHVN

• Michelle Phuong Ho: Poet; Community Organizer; Former Curatorial Fellow, NXTHVN

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Connecticut's Department of Motor Vehicles began phasing out permanent or "lifetime" disability parking placards in 2010, to help curb misuse. Some advocates and lawmakers are hoping more can be done to regulate how these passes are issued, and how misuse might be enforced.

This hour, we hear from Alexandria Bode, who is behind the accessible parking-focused non-profit, Peace Love & ACCESSibility, along with her family members and fellow advocates, Sam Bode and Mary Caruso.

House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora and Transportation Committee Co-Chair Senator Christine Cohen are their legislators, and both testified for SB 279 this session. The bill, which passed under a different name, requires that a person’s treating physician, PA or APRN certify the need for a pass, versus an online provider, for example. They also join us.

The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles formed the Accessible Parking Advisory Council last year. DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera discusses the latest after the council's second meeting.

East Haven Police Officer Joseph Murgo recently contributed to a PSA the Bodes' non-profit is producing. He also joins the conversation.

GUESTS:

• Alexandra Bode: Executive Director, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility
• Sam Bode: Volunteer, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility
• Mary Caruso: Founder, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility
• Joseph Murgo: Captain; Public Information Officer, East Haven Police Department
• Vincent Candelora: Connecticut State Representation; House Majority Leader
• Christine Cohen: Connecticut State Senator; Transportation Committee Co-Chair
• Tony Guerrera: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Connecticut Public has spent the past year investigating political dysfunction, allegations of absentee ballot misconduct, and machine politics in Bridgeport.

The investigation has culminated in a four part series called “In Absentia.” Today, we hear episode 3 of this podcast and speak to members of The Accountability Project, Connecticut Public’s investigative team.

You can listen to all the episodes of In Absentia on ctpublic.org/bpt or wherever you get your podcasts.

GUESTS:

• Bria Lloyd: Investigative Reporter for the Accountability Project (below right)

• Jim Haddadin: Editor for The Accountability Project (below left)

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Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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How do you listen to Connecticut Public or Where We Live? Your cell phone, car radio or something else?

This hour, we explore the many ways information can travel, and the history of how these devices were made. Hear Where We Live host Catherine Shen take a tour of the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut with Charles "Skip" Coulson, John Ramos, Peter Knight and Jeff Gross, some of the museum's many volunteers.

Plus, we hear from Lisa Kirk, one of the museum’s amateur radio operators or "hams." She discusses the museum's amateur radio club, and what it takes to become a ham.

GUESTS:

• Lisa Kirk: Volunteer and ham radio operator at the Vintage Radio and Communications Museum in Windsor

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Growing up as a transracial adoptee, Angela Tucker's friends, family, and even strangers would make comments and assumptions about what her life would have been like if she hadn’t been adopted.

Angela Tucker is the author of the book "You Should Be Grateful": Stories of Race, Identity, and Transracial Adoption and she is Executive Director of the Adoptee Mentoring Society.

Today, we talk about the intricacies of navigating life as a transracial adoptee. For years, adoption stories have been told from the point of view of the adoptive parents. Angela says it’s time to flip the script and let adoptees tell their stories.

Later, we hear from an adoption agency and learn about the type of conversations they have with potential transracial adoptive parents.

Check out the UConn Health Adoption Assurance Program to find more information about transracial adoption.

GUESTS:

• Angela Tucker: Author of the book, "You Should Be Grateful": Stories of Race, Identity, and Transracial Adoption and Executive Director of the Adoptee Mentoring Society

• Laura Sullivan: Chief Program Officer at Just Choice, a pro-choice adoption agency

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

Cat Pastor contributed to this show which originally aired December 8, 2023.

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Colleges are spaces for open dialogue, debate, and even protest.

Student protesters have called for universities to divest from Israel. Today, we hear from students who have participated in encampments at Yale University and Wesleyan University.

We also speak with Davarian Baldwin, author of Shadow of the Ivory Tower and professor at Trinity college to get a better understanding on what divestment means, and how it might impact the financial future of many universities.

Wesleyan statement on campus protests

Yale statement regarding campus statement

GUESTS:

• Chisato Kimura: Law Student at Yale University

• Batya Kline: Student Organizer at Wesleyan University

• Davarian Baldwin: Founding director of the Smart Cities Lab at Trinity College; author, In the Shadow of the Ivory Tower: How Universities are Plundering Our Cities

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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Heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States for decades, putting much of the focus squarely and rightly on cardiovascular disease. But what about congenital heart conditions, something affecting your heart since birth?

There are 13 million adults living with congenital heart disease, and that number has grown as treatments advance; survival rates have improved by 75% since the 1940s. But those diagnoses can come later in life, and even with sure signs, the need for specialized, lifelong care is often unmet.

This hour, we're joined by the co-authors of Healing Hearts and Minds: A holistic approach to coping well with congenital heart disease.

Plus, we hear from one of 50 clinics accredited by the Adult Congenital Heart Association in the U.S., right here in Connecticut.

GUESTS:

• Tracy Livecchi: Social Worker; Co-Author, Healing Hearts and Minds: A holistic approach to coping well with congenital heart disease

• Dr. Liza Morton: Psychologist; Co-Author, Healing Hearts and Minds

• Dr. Robert Elder: Associate Professor of Pediatrics (Cardiology) and Internal Medicine (Cardiology); Director, Adult Congenital Heart Program; Director Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Program, Pediatric Cardiology

Cat Pastor contributed to this program which originally aired October 11.

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More workers than ever are working a hybrid work schedule - part time in the office and part time at home. According to a Gallup Poll, challenges-hybrid-work.aspx">nearly 40% of hybrid workers can set their own schedule.

Yet burnout feels more apparent than ever before.

Many offices are searching to find solutions to provide better work-life balance including the four day work week. Today, we revisit this topic and explore others that claim to give employees more of their time back.

And we want to hear from you. What’s your schedule like in the office these days? Would you rather work a four day week?

GUESTS:

• Alex Soojung-Kim Pang: Director of Research and Innovation at 4-Day Week Global
• Lynne C Vincent: Associate Professor of Management, Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University
• Robert C. Bird: Professor of Business Law, School of Business at University of Connecticut

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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The Venice Biennale is the art world's most prestigious exhibition. It’s sometimes even called the "Olympics of Art," held annually in Italy. Right now, Pablo Delano, a Puerto Rico-born, Hartford-based artist, has an installation called “The Museum of the Old Colony” located in its central pavilion.

The installation collection is comprised largely of photographs and artifacts, all of which raise questions around America’s relationship with Puerto Rico, and the island's status as the world’s oldest colony. The “museum” also raises questions about the politics and institution of museums.

This hour, we hear from Delano.

Plus, Faisal Saleh with Palestine Museum US in Woodbridge discusses their unofficial collateral exhibit in Venice, "Foreigners without a Homeland," featuring 27 artists.

1 of 4An exhibit named “Foreigners in Their Homeland,” proposed by the Palestine Museum U.S., was not included in the 60th Venice Biennale. It is now an unofficial collateral event at Venice’s Palazzo Mora opening April 20.Provided / Faisal Saleh2 of 4An exhibit named “Foreigners in Their Homeland,” proposed by the Palestine Museum U.S., was not included in the 60th Venice Biennale. It is now an unofficial collateral event at Venice’s Palazzo Mora opening April 20.Provided / Faisal Saleh3 of 4An exhibit named “Foreigners in Their Homeland,” proposed by the Palestine Museum U.S., was not included in the 60th Venice Biennale. It is now an unofficial collateral event at Venice’s Palazzo Mora opening April 20.Provided / Faisal Saleh4 of 4An exhibit named “Foreigners in Their Homeland,” proposed by the Palestine Museum U.S., was not included in the 60th Venice Biennale. It is now an unofficial collateral event at Venice’s Palazzo Mora opening April 20.Provided / Faisal Saleh

GUESTS:

• Pablo Delano: Visual Artist and Photographer; Professor of Fine Arts, Trinity College
• Faisal Saleh: Founder and Executive director, Palestine Museum US in Woodbridge

Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

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